Excursions

[Stepherella]

I have some questions about the excursions and ports.

They excursions seem somewhat spendy, so I was wondering how to save money. It seems like even going to a beach to hang out costs money. Is there a way to get to the beach cheaper? Do they charge you to lie on the beach? How does this work? I am going on a 7-day western cruise in September for my honeymoon, and would like to do a couple of excursions, but also keep the cost down. In Key West- does anyone think it is necessary to do an excursion- or is it fine to just do some sight seeing on your own? I have never been on a cruise before and am unsure how it works. If you don't sign up for an excursion at a specific port, will you have nothing to do except hang around on the boat.
Any advice would be welcome,
thanks,
Stephanie

[amy1007]

We are going to do it "on our own" in the Caymans. We found a dive outfit that will take us out snorkeling with three different stops, the last one being Stingray City. They pick you up near the cruise dock terminal and bring you back. The price was MUCH better than excursion prices. The outfit is Bayside Watersports, and was recommended to me. Website is baysidewatersports.com. Does anyone out there have knowledge of this outfit? I am also looking into doing Xcaret (Cozumel stop) on my own. But I don't have any specific info on that yet.

[bkline]

You don't have to sign up for the Disney sponsored excursions. The advantage is they will get you back to the ship. If you go on your own it is up to you to make sure you are back before the ship leaves the port. I have done cruise excursions and some on my own. Search the web for the islands you are going to visit and compare. Or grab a taxi and go to a beach. Many places will charge you to rent a chair on the beach.